The Elevation of the Holy Cross, also known as the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, is observed worldwide by the Orthodox Church every September 14, which corresponds to September 27 in the Gregorian calendar. This feast commemorates two significant events: the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena in 326 and its recapture by Emperor Heraclius from the Persians in 628. According to tradition, the True Cross, used in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, was found during Helena's pilgrimage to Jerusalem, leading to the construction of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at the discovery site. The cross was taken by the Persians in 614 but was returned to the church in 629 after a tour across the Byzantine Empire. In Eastern Orthodox practice, the Feast of the Cross is a fast day, where the faithful are expected to adhere to a strict fast, prohibiting meat, dairy, and fish, although the consumption of oil is permitted.